Major crime crackdown as £1m-worth of illegal vapes and cigarettes seized

A police force cracking down on the UK’s booming illegal trade in vapes and cigarettes has dealt crime a major blow – after seizing a staggering £1m haul. Over the last 12 months, Greater Manchester Police (GMP)’s ‘Operation Elswick’, a coordinated response with the city’s Trading Standards, has combatted Manchester’s “growing sale of illicit tobacco, illegal vapes and counterfeit products.”

Now they have revealed the operation has seized over £1m in illegal goods, including: £275,000 of illegal cigarettes – many hidden behind sophisticated hydraulic false walls, ceilings and floors; £162,000 of illegal vapes; £160,000 of shisha; £97,000 of hand‑rolling tobacco; £211,000 of other counterfeit goods and £126,000 seized directly by GMP staff. The operation was launched after intelligence highlighted a persistent and escalating problem across the City of Manchester.

It brought together the GMP district intelligence team, Trading Standards, Manchester City Council, and WagTail, with referrals also made to HMRC, ensuring a joined‑up approach that looks to long‑term disruption of criminal activity.

The approach has led to several shops being referred to HMRC, where they face potential fines of up to £10,000, and several premises are now subject to closure notices following repeat offending.

City of Manchester Detective Chief Inspector Chris Woodburn said: “This has been an integrated operation to tackle illicit vapes and cigarettes.

“Seizures have now totalled over £1m, which we know will have a massive impact on illegal operations in the area and sends a clear message that we will not tolerate this.

“Our work in this area will continue as we are committed to tackling the issue of illegal vapes and cigarettes which fund wider crime and harm public health.

“I would encourage the public to pass on any information relating to sales to CrimeStoppers which can be done anonymously by called 0800 555 111.”

Councillor Basat Sheikh, Executive Member for Neighbourhoods for Manchester City Council, said: “From the outset, Operation Elswick has shown precisely what can be achieved through strong partnership working between Manchester City Council and Greater Manchester Police.

“We have made significant strides in disrupting criminal networks that profit from selling illicit, substandard, and potentially dangerous goods across our communities.

“Seizing over £1m worth of illegal products is a major milestone and a testament to the dedication of officers from both organisations.

“We will continue this relentless work to protect our residents, support legitimate local businesses, and keep Manchester safe.”